Chapter 4 – WE AGNOSTICS – Second Edition

With few changes from the First Edition, Chapter 4's main objective is to enable readers to find a Power greater than themselves that would solve their problem. Though Chapter 4 was originally written to describe that Power in spiritual and moral terms, without hesitancy to talk about God, it also steered AA's discussion of spirituality away from specific religious or theological doctrines. Agnostics and atheists among AA members at that time were consulted during the writing of the Big Book and their influence was reflected in Chapter 4. Bill W. wrote of the importance of that influence in the book Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age published in 1957. He wrote, “Our group conscience was at work to construct the most acceptable and effective book possible. Every voice was playing its appointed part. Our atheists and agnostics widened our gateway so that all who suffer might pass through, regardless of their belief or lack of belief.” Chapter 4 in the Second Edition also referenced the newly added Appendix 2 entitled "Spiritual Experience" that clarified the nature and variety of spiritual experiences, as well as when and how they can occur. Appendix 2 will be read in a later episode. Howard L, sober since January 1988, presents an inspired reading of the Big Book and encourages listeners to revisit earlier podcast episodes that feature the main chapters and stories in the First Edition of the Big Book. Enjoy listening on our website, BigBookPodcast.com, or download and subscribe to the podcast for free at Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. And, if you have a minute, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.